Fezf2 directs the differentiation of corticofugal neurons from striatal progenitors in vivo.

ABSTRACT: In the developing cerebral cortex, cell-extrinsic and cell-intrinsic signals govern the establishment of neuron subtype-specific identity. Here we show that, within the niche of the striatum, the expression of a single transcription factor, Fezf2, is sufficient to generate corticofugal neurons from progenitors fated to become medium spiny neurons. This demonstrates that a specific population of cortical projection neurons can be directed to differentiate outside of the cortex by cell-autonomous signaling.

SUBMITTER: Rouaux C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4207442 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature